Kilowatt: A Podcast about Electric Vehicles

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Kilowatt, Brad Taris, founder of The Building Train, joins the show to discuss innovative ways to empower tradespeople and elevate the construction industry. Brad shares his unique career journey from architecture to fieldwork and how those experiences inspired him to launch The Building Train. He delves into the platform’s mission to create career pathways, offer mentorship, and connect skilled workers to long-term success. Brad and Bodie also explore systemic issues in construction, such as workforce shortages and misaligned incentives, and how storytelling and digital tools can be used to drive cultural and economic change. The episode offers deep insights for anyone interested in workforce development, entrepreneurship, or the future of skilled trades.Support the Show👉 Support KilowattOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteGuest Links – Brad Taris:🌐 The Building Train Website💼 Brad Taris on LinkedIn🏗️ The Building Train on LinkedIn

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Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, Tesla makes major moves in Austin as their Robotaxi fleet begins driving solo without safety drivers. But is the tech really ready? Ford officially axes the all-electric F-150 Lightning, pivoting instead to an extended-range hybrid version—and takes a $19.5 billion hit in the process. We also look at Ford’s controversial EV battery repair costs and a new extended battery and drive unit warranty from Tesla. Plus, Scout Motors takes a significant step toward selling its EVs directly in Colorado. Get the latest insights and analysis from the EV world in this week's roundup.Listen to True North EVsTrue North EVsSupport the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:Tesla Is Finally Letting Robotaxis Drive Solo In Austin. Now Comes The Hard PartTesla CEO Elon Musk claims driverless Robotaxis coming to Austin in 3 weeksFord reveals new F-150 Lightning EREV plans, kills off EV versionFord cancels all-electric F-150 Lightning, announces $19.5 billion in chargesFord Accused of Paying $600 for $22,600 EV Battery RepairsTesla Introduces New Extended Battery and Drive Unit WarrantyScout Motors Just Got A Big Step Closer To Actually Selling EVs

Description:Rivian recently unveiled their autonomous vehicle technology, and in this episode, we dive deep into what was presented. We explore the various levels of autonomy, Rivian's approach to AI-driven features like hands-free highway driving, and how the company's autonomy stack is being developed entirely in-house. You'll hear insights into the hardware powering Rivian's self-driving capabilities, including their custom compute platform. Plus, there's a candid discussion about the business implications, safety priorities, and how Rivian plans to roll out these features in phases. Whether you're a Rivian fan or curious about the future of autonomous vehicles, this episode breaks down everything you need to know.Support the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:Rivian Autonomy

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Kilowatt, Elon Musk stirs excitement with claims that Tesla would remove the Robotaxi safety monitors within three weeks. Tesla Shanghai hits a major milestone by producing its 4 millionth vehicle. We also break down Tesla’s 2025 Holiday Update, featuring Grok voice commands, a new Santa Mode, and an FSD dashcam overlay, but still no CarPlay. A new "Eyes-Off" feature allows texting while driving under FSD supervision, but you shouldn't use it. VW's Scout brand is shifting focus to range-extended EVs due to consumer preferences. Lastly, Waymo is expanding its autonomous vehicle service to four new cities.Support the ShowSupport KilowattOther PodcastsBeyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews LinksTesla CEO Elon Musk Claims Driverless Robotaxis Coming to Austin in 3 WeeksTesla Announces Major Milestone at Gigafactory ShanghaiTesla Announces 2025 Holiday Update: Grok Commands, New Santa Mode, Dashcam FSD Overlay, But Lacks CarPlayTesla Introduces Early Eyes-Off Feature; Allows to Text and DriveVW’s Scout is Making a Hard Pivot Towards Range-Extended EVs Amid Consumer DemandWaymo Speeds Into More Cities!

Description:In this episode, I analyze the latest safety findings on autonomous vehicles, particularly Waymo's report that showcases the effectiveness of their driverless cars. I discuss critical insights from Dr. Jonathan Slotkin's analysis and highlight that Waymo has driven over 100 million miles in autonomous mode, reporting significant reductions in injuries compared to human drivers. I address the broader context of road safety, noting the annual toll of vehicle accidents in the U.S. and the complexities of relying solely on autonomous technology to mitigate these issues. I also examine the challenges of implementing self-driving cars in unpredictable driving conditions and emphasize the ethical considerations around public safety and data sharing in the evolving landscape of transportation. Ultimately, I call for a balanced view of the advancements in autonomous driving, advocating for a comprehensive approach to enhancing road safety that encompasses technology, infrastructure, and driver education.Support the Show:www.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:FACT SHEET: Road Safety – UNCar Crashes Are A Public Health Crisis. Autonomous Cars Are The Cure. – CleanTechnicaNew York Times - Opinion Piece - The Data on Self-Driving Cars Is Clear. We Have to Change Course

If you’d like to see the board and us in video, please enjoy the Thankgiving Extravaganza at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5QPUj0uGdcDescription:In this episode of Kilowatt, I host our 19th and a half annual Thanksgiving trivia extravaganza alongside Allison and Steve Sheridan. We dive into a lively, Jeopardy-style game featuring electric vehicles, renewable energy, and pop culture, filled with playful banter and spirited debates. Categories like "Culture Surge" and "Warp Speed" blend fun facts with safety tips, showcasing our dynamic chemistry. As we conclude, we reflect on our performances and share personal updates, capturing the community spirit and excitement that defines Kilowatt.Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:Allison Sheridan’s Website – PodfeetSteve Sheridan’s YouTube Channel

Kilowatt 659: Rivian’s Runway and the UK’s EV SurgeIn this episode, Mark dives into Rivian’s Q3 2025 earnings call and explores what the numbers mean for the company’s long-term viability. He breaks down Rivian’s cost-cutting strategies, production milestones, and the implications of their Georgia plant pause. Mark also covers a big development in the UK’s EV market, where battery electric vehicles now make up over a third of new car sales. He wraps up by sharing thoughts on Ford's surprising rise in UK BEV rankings and what this might signal for legacy automakers globally.Support the Show: www.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:Rivian Q3 2025 Earnings CallUK: EVs Hit 37.6% Market Share, Ford Leads in BEVs

Episode 658: Ford’s EV Reality Check & Earnings InsightsIn this episode, we analyze Ford Motor Company's third-quarter 2025 earnings call, focusing on insights from CEO Jim Farley and other leadership. Farley discusses the company's impressive performance amid challenges posed by fires at the Novelis aluminum plant, which supplies critical materials for production. He outlines Ford's crisis response strategies and the anticipated recovery in aluminum supply. COO Kumar Galhotra elaborates on the financial implications of the disruptions and plans to increase production capacity. CFO Sherry House shares insights into the financial impact of electric vehicle investments while highlighting measures for improving profitability. Farley emphasizes the commitment to electrification, including a new affordable EV platform, and addresses the implications of market trends and tariffs on operations. The call concludes with a Q&A segment, underscoring Ford's strategic adaptability and optimism for the future.Support the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther PodcastsBeyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews LinksFord Q3 2025 Earnings Call